Senegal Prime Minister Sonko heads to Morocco as 18 Senegal fans await trial over AFCON final chaos | OneFootball

Sonko and Moroccan officials to meet following stadium unrest

Senegal Prime Minister Sonko heads to Morocco as 18 Senegal fans await trial over AFCON final chaos

Senegal Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko will travel to Morocco on Monday amid fan tensions following AFCON 2025 final in Rabat.

Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko is due to visit Morocco on Monday, in trip taking place shortly after tension rose between supporters of both countries following the AFCON 2025 final according to an official source speaking to AFP.

The visit comes as part of the 15th session of the High Joint Partnership Committee between Senegal & Morocco.

A source from Senegal’s foreign ministry said the meeting is focused on strengthening cooperation between two nation.

Howeverthe trip also takes place in the shadow of the highly charged final in Rabat where Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 to lift the Africa Cup of Nations title.

Fan trouble during the final in Rabat

The Morocco–Senegal final created strong reactions on social media with tensions growing between fan communities after several controversial scenes at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Before the end of regular time, around 1000 Senegal supporters attempted to enter the pitch area for nearly 15 minute before security forces and organizers restored control.

Shortly before that, Senegal’s players and coach briefly left the field in protest after late penalty was awarded to Morocco in stoppage time.

The team later returned and Senegal went on to win the match in extra time.

Legal cases still ongoing

Moroccan authorities have confirmed that 18 Senegalese supporters are currently facing trial in Morocco in connection with the stadium incidents.

Their court proceedings expected to continue on 29 January keeping the events of the final in the public spotlight.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino also commented on the situation stressing the importance of respecting refereeing decisions both on and off the pitch.

He warned that actions against the spirit of the game threaten football’s core values.

Cooperation beyond Football

Despite the tensions caused by the match, Senegal & Morocco maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties.

Sonko’s visit is primarily linked to bilateral partnership discussions with both sides expected to focus on long term relations rather than football disputes.